A few years ago I was talking with my chief pilot about light turbine helicopters. What he told me stuck. When you are choosing between a 206 or a 500, the you buy depends on where the person who is paying for the machine. If they are sitting up front you get a 500. If they sit in back you get a 206. I have to agree with you on the R66. Until they properly explain how the two fatal accidents happened, I would not consider an R66. Based on Robinson's past record anyone that owns an R66 that needs any fixes or mods, will be left holding the bag on that. If you get a chance to fly an EN480, try it. I have flown the 28 and 280 models and have enjoyed the experience. Plus there are very few life limited parts. If you get a chance talk with Dennis Kenyon.
If you decide on the 206, get a Bell made 206, not an Agusta made 206. From what I have been told, there is a big difference between the two.
Last edited by rick1128; 28th May 2012 at 01:40.